AI in Education: Northern Ontario Leaders Unite to Embrace Opportunities and Address Challenges
Education leaders in Northern Ontario gathered in Thunder Bay for AI training to balance its benefits and challenges in schools. Emphasis was placed on collaboration, ethical use, and preparing students for future careers.
THUNDER BAY – AI in Education
Education leaders from across Northern Ontario gathered in Thunder Bay for a focused professional learning session on artificial intelligence (AI) in education. The Northern Ontario Education Leaders (NOEL) consortium hosted the event on Thursday at the Da Vinci Centre, with training delivered by Future Design School.
Nicole Morden Cormier, a professional development consultant with NOEL, highlighted that AI can feel intimidating, especially without deep knowledge. “The more we know, the less intimidating it is because the more we are in control of what is happening,” she said.
About 130 education professionals attended, ranging from classroom educators to board office staff, including directors and superintendents of education. Morden Cormier noted that Future Design School created a program that helps each participant understand both the positive potential and the necessary caution when using AI.
Balancing AI’s Benefits and Challenges
Educators are encouraged to explore both the benefits of AI and the risks of bias it may introduce. According to Morden Cormier, children need to learn key concepts and develop deep thinking skills, as well as social skills that prepare them for future careers. The goal is to maintain a balanced approach to integrating AI into education.
Addressing Northern Ontario’s Unique Needs
Maria Vasanelli, chair of NOEL and director of education for Superior North Catholic District School Board, emphasized the distinct needs of northern school boards compared to southern ones. She stressed the importance of collaboration among directors of education to serve students effectively.
Vasanelli described AI as one of the most significant developments in education over the past century. “Either we learn and get on board and move forward, or we will be left in the dark,” she said. Keeping school boards and students current with AI technology is critical.
Future Design School’s Role
Leslie McBeth, director of special projects at Future Design School, explained their optimistic approach to AI in education. The focus is on how AI can make learning more relevant and engaging by meeting students where they are and supporting their progress.
McBeth highlighted the importance of intentional and careful AI use, considering both its possibilities and challenges. Schools worldwide initially responded with concern, but the conversation has evolved toward leveraging AI positively in education.
The training also covered how educators can intentionally integrate AI learning experiences for students, ensuring ethical and effective use of the technology.
Key Takeaways for Education Professionals
- Gain confidence through knowledge to reduce AI-related intimidation.
- Understand AI’s potential benefits alongside its risks, including bias.
- Collaborate across roles—from classroom teachers to superintendents—to build shared AI understanding.
- Focus on balanced learning that develops critical thinking and social skills in students.
- Approach AI integration thoughtfully and intentionally for meaningful impact.
For educators interested in further AI training, resources like Complete AI Training’s latest AI courses offer practical learning designed for education professionals.
